YouTube Background Play Stopped Working? Here's the Solution!
If your YouTube background playback recently stopped working, you're not alone. Here is the 100% working fix for 2026.
The Problem: Background Play No Longer Working
Recently, many users across Reddit and other forums have reported that YouTube background play has stopped working as expected. Many users have noticed that they can no longer have YouTube running in the background with Picture-in-Picture (PiP) closed, or the audio simply cuts off the moment they switch apps.
YouTube has been tightening its restrictions on background playback to push users towards their paid Premium subscription. However, if you rely on YouTube for music, podcasts, or educational content while multitasking, this change can be incredibly frustrating.
The Fixed Solution: SkipCut Web Player
At SkipCut, we've developed a way to bypass these restrictions using our advanced web player. Our solution currently works by utilizing the device's native Picture-in-Picture (PiP) capabilities to ensure the audio keeps playing even when you leave the browser.
🎉 Ready to Fix It?
Try SkipCut Now →Step-by-Step: How to Enable Background Play (2026 Fix)
Follow these exact steps to get background play working again on your iPhone or Android device:
Load Your Video
Paste the YouTube URL or search for the video you want to listen to in the background.
Enter Full Screen Mode
Once the video starts playing, tap the full screen icon. This is the critical step for the new fix.
Swipe to Home / Open PiP
While the video is in full screen, swipe up to go home (or press your home button). This will trigger Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode.
Continue in Background
You can now continue watching in the PiP window or simply let the audio play in the background while you use other apps or lock your screen!
Why Use SkipCut for Background Play?
Unlike other third-party apps that might be buggy or require complex installations, SkipCut works directly in your browser. Here’s why it’s the best fix:
- Zero Cost: No YouTube Premium subscription required.
- No Ads: Enjoy your content without interruptions.
- Battery Efficient: Designed to use minimal resources compared to the native YouTube app.
- Privacy First: No account or login required to use our player.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this work on iOS 26?
Yes, the full-screen swipe method works perfectly on the latest iOS versions using Safari.
Can I use this on Android?
Absolutely! The method works on Chrome and other Android browsers that support PiP mode.
🎵 Get Your Background Play Back
Don't let YouTube's restrictions stop your groove. Use SkipCut and keep the music playing.
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